The Superstition Mountains were born inside the core of an ancient caldera, the result of a series of major eruptions that occurred 15 - 25 M years ago.

Though subsequent geologic activity and erosion have obscured the caldera's appearance, evidence such as lava flow channels and columns remain today. The vertical outer walls of Peralta Canyon are remnants of the original caldera.

Weavers Needle is an erosional remnant of the area's complex and tumultuous volcanic past:

The trail begins at the mouth of Peralta Canyon and rises quickly on a rugged, heavily vegetated path. Oak and mesquite veil portions of the trail along the canyon's seasonally flowing creek.

Grades steepen past 1 mile (2,902') as brush recedes further from the main water source, a chance to examine columns of volcanic rock needles that top the canyon walls.

At 1.7 miles (3,428') you'll cross (right) over seasonal pools and resume a steep, shifting course through open rock and cacti gardens on the east side of the canyon.

Note the prevalence of agave and contrasting light and dark rock in the upper canyon.

Light rock on this section is welded tuff, a composite of hot volcanic ash and cinder that fell back to earth and lithified. The dark needles above are remnants of magma columns that solidified under ground and exposed through differential erosion.

The trail crests on Fremont Saddle (2.2 miles : 3,754') with dramatic views north of Weavers Needle, Boulder Canyon and a maze of washes, mesas, buttes and peaks that comprise the backcountry.

Social trails emanate from the saddle to additional view points, some requiring a moderate scramble. The Peralta Trail continues 4 miles north to the Dutchman Trail in Boulder Canyon.

Worth Noting

What are all those tall stalks in the upper canyon? Parry Agave is variously referred to as the Century Plant. Century Plants bloom only once in their lives, sometime between 10-30 years. It begins with a thick, asparagus-like stalk that can grow 8" a day and reach over 10' in just two weeks. This process drains the plant of all its resources, killing it in the process. The seeded stalk dies too, but with a full stock of seeds that are re-distributed by wind and wildlife.

Camping and Backpacking Information

Dispersed camping is permitted in the Superstition Wilderness. No fee or permit is required.

Fires are not permitted along the Peralta Trail, and in most locations on the west side of the wilderness area.

Camp only in established sites, which are not marked but intuitively found right along the trail, usually near a water source.

Water is seasonally available along the trail, but always plan on carrying all of your own water. Treat all natural water sources before consumption. Note that Water Reports are usually posted at the trailhead, but may not be current.

Contact the Mesa Ranger District (408.610.3300) for current trail information and potential restrictions before heading out.

Group size is limited to 15 individuals.

Rules and Regulations

There is no day-use fee to enter the Superstition Wilderness from this location.

Directions to Trailhead

The Peralta Trailhead is located east of Mesa AZ in the Superstition Wilderness, 7.3 miles north of Highway 60 (Superstition Highway) on Peralta Road.

Exit Highway 60 just past mile marker 204 onto Peralta Road, and follow this up to the trailhead.

Note the road turns to groomed dirt .9 miles from the turnoff, but is suitable for 2WD cars. The road forks suddenly after 5.5 miles - keep left. You'll pass the Lost Goldmine Trailhead (6.9 miles) before reaching the Peralta Trailhead (7.3 miles).